Gateway device, radio communication device, charging control method, data transmission method, and non-transitory computer readable medium

ABSTRACT

To provide a gateway device that achieves charging control in accordance with a RAT being used by a UE even when the UE is performing communication using different RATs at the same time, the present gateway device (30) includes a management unit (31) configured to, when a communication terminal (10) forms communication aggregation by performing a first radio communication using a first radio access technology and a second radio communication using a second radio access technology, manage at least one bearer assigned to the communication terminal (10) in association with information indicating the first and second radio access technologies, and a charging system communication unit (32) configured to transmit the information indicating the first and second radio access technologies to at least one policy charging control device (40) that performs charging control.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a gateway device, a radio communicationdevice, a charging control method, a data transmission method, and aprogram and, particularly, relates to a gateway device, a radiocommunication device, a charging control method, a data transmissionmethod, and a program using a plurality of radio access technologies.

BACKGROUND ART

3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), a standard specification formobile communication systems, introduces dual connectivity as atechnique for a communication terminal UE (User Equipment) to carry outwideband and low-delay communications. The dual connectivity is atechnique that allows a UE to have dual connections to a first basestation MeNB (Master evolved NodeB) and a second base station SeNB(Secondary eNB) that perform LTE (Long Term Evolution) communications,for example, so that the UE communicates not only with the MeNB but alsowith the SeNB. This improves the throughput of communications.

Non Patent Literature 1 describes, as a dual connectivity procedure, aprocess flow or the like where a UE newly adds an SeNB as an eNB tocommunicate with the UE when the UE is being connected with an MeNB.

On the other hand, areas where wireless LAN (Local Area Network)communications, which enable high-speed communications although thecoverage area is smaller than mobile communication systems, areavailable have been expanded recently. Thus, a technique where a UEconnects to both an eNB that performs mobile communications and anaccess point WT (Wireless LAN Termination) that performs wireless LANcommunications by applying the dual connectivity technology, and the UEcommunicates not only with the eNB but also with the WT (which isreferred to hereinafter as LTE-WT aggregation, which may also bereferred to as LTE-WT dual connectivity), has also been studied. To bemore specific, the background, object and the like of this study aredescribed in Non Patent Literature 2.

Note that a charging rate to be applied to a UE is determined on thebasis of a radio access technology (RAT) being used by the UE. Forexample, when a UE is performing LTE communications with an MeNB and anSeNB in dual connectivity, a charging rate determined at the time of LTEcommunications is applied to the UE. Non Patent Literature 3 describes aPCC (Policy and Charging Control) architecture for carrying out policycontrol and charging control.

Non Patent Literature 4 describes that a gateway device PGW (Packet DateNetwork Gateway) manages RAT types on a UE-by-UE basis as parametersrelated to charging. The RAT type is a parameter indicating a RAT thatis currently used by a UE.

CITATION LIST Non Patent Literature

-   NPL1: 3GPP TS 36.300 V13.0.0 (2015-06) Section 10.1.2.8-   NPL2: 3GPP TSG RAN Meeting #67 (2015-03) RP-150510-   NPL3: 3GPP TS 23.203 V13.4.0 (2015-06) Section 5, Section A.4.2-   NPL4: 3GPP TS 23.401 V13.1.0 (2014-12) Section 5.7.4

SUMMARY OF INVENTION Technical Problem

In the case of executing the dual connectivity described in Non PatentLiterature 1, a UE performs communications with an MeNB and an SeNBsimultaneously by using one RAT. In this case, no problem arises whenRAT types as charging parameters are managed on a UE-by-UE basis asdescribed in Non Patent Literature 4. However, in the case where a UEperforms LTE-WT aggregation as described in Non Patent Literature 2, theUE performs communications using two types of RATs at the same time.Therefore, if a PGW manages RAT types on a UE-by-UE basis as describedin Non Patent Literature 4, there is a possibility that a RAT type thatis managed by the PGW and a RAT that is actually used by the UE could bedifferent. This causes a problem that, when a UE performs communicationsusing two types of RATs, it is not possible to conduct adequate chargingcontrol (apply a charging rate) in accordance with actualcommunications.

An exemplary object of the present invention is to provide a gatewaydevice, a radio communication device, a charging control method, a datatransmission method, and a program that achieve charging control inaccordance with a RAT being used by a UE even when the UE is performingcommunications using different RATs at the same time.

Solution to Problem

A gateway device according to a first exemplary aspect of the presentinvention includes a management unit configured to, when a communicationterminal forms communication aggregation by performing a first radiocommunication using a first radio access technology and a second radiocommunication using a second radio access technology, manage at leastone bearer assigned to the communication terminal in association withinformation indicating the first and second radio access technologies,and a charging system communication unit configured to transmit theinformation indicating the first and second radio access technologies toat least one charging control device that performs charging control.

A radio communication device according to a second exemplary aspect ofthe present invention is a radio communication device that performs afirst radio communication using a first radio access technology with acommunication terminal, wherein, when the communication terminal formscommunication aggregation by performing the first radio communicationand a second radio communication using a second radio access technology,the radio communication device transmits information associating atleast one bearer assigned to the communication terminal and informationindicating the first and second radio access technologies to a networkdevice that manages the bearer.

A charging control method according to a third exemplary aspect of thepresent invention includes, when a communication terminal formscommunication aggregation by performing a first radio communicationusing a first radio access technology and a second radio communicationusing a second radio access technology, managing at least one bearerassigned to the communication terminal in association with informationindicating the first and second radio access technologies, andtransmitting the information indicating the first and second radioaccess technologies to at least one charging control device thatperforms charging control.

A data transmission method according to a fourth exemplary aspect of thepresent invention is a data transmission method used in a radiocommunication device that performs a first radio communication using afirst radio access technology with a communication terminal, the methodincluding, when the communication terminal forms communicationaggregation by performing the first radio communication and a secondradio communication using a second radio access technology, transmittinginformation associating at least one bearer assigned to thecommunication terminal and information indicating the first and secondradio access technologies to a network device that manages the bearer.

A program according to a fifth exemplary aspect of the present inventioncauses a computer to execute, when a communication terminal formscommunication aggregation by performing a first radio communicationusing a first radio access technology and a second radio communicationusing a second radio access technology, managing at least one bearerassigned to the communication terminal in association with informationindicating the first and second radio access technologies, andtransmitting the information indicating the first and second radioaccess technologies to at least one charging control device thatperforms charging control.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the exemplary aspects of the present invention, it ispossible to provide a gateway device, a radio communication device, acharging control method, a data transmission method, and a program thatachieve charging control in accordance with a RAT being used by a UEeven when the UE is performing communications using different RATs atthe same time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to afirst embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to asecond embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a charging system according to thesecond embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a PGW according to the secondembodiment.

FIG. 5 is a view showing parameters managed by the PGW according to thesecond embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an eNB according to the secondembodiment.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a UE according to the secondembodiment.

FIG. 8 is a view showing a process flow of transmitting of a RAT typeaccording to the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a view showing parameter information set to an E-RABModification Indication message according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a view showing parameter information set to a Modify BearerRequest message according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a view showing parameter information set to a Create SessionRequest message according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a view showing parameter information set to a Bearer ResourceCommand message according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a view showing parameter information set to a Modify AccessBearers Request message according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a view showing parameter information set to a Context Requestmessage according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a view showing parameter information set to a ChangeNotification Request message according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a view showing a process flow of transmitting of a RAT typefrom a PGW to a PCRF according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a view showing a process flow of transmitting of a Diametermessage between a PCRF and a TDF according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a view to explain values of RAT types according to the secondembodiment.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to athird embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a view to explain values of RAT types according to the thirdembodiment.

FIG. 21 is a view to explain values of RAT types according to the thirdembodiment.

FIG. 22 is a view showing parameter information set to an E-RABModification Indication message according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of an eNB in each embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram of a UE in each embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram of a PGW in each embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS First Embodiment

Embodiments of the present invention are described hereinafter withreference to the drawings. A configuration example of a communicationsystem according to a first embodiment of the present invention isdescribed with reference to FIG. 1.

The communication system in FIG. 1 includes a communication terminal 10,a radio communication device 21, a radio communication device 22, agateway device 30, and a policy charging control device 40.

The communication terminal 10 may be a mobile phone terminal, asmartphone, a tablet terminal or the like. Further, the communicationterminal 10 may be a UE, which is used as a general term forcommunication terminals in the 3GPP. Furthermore, the communicationterminal 10 may be a terminal that performs communications using a 2G(2nd Generation mobile phone) radio access technology, a 3G (3rdGeneration mobile phone) radio access technology, an LTE radio accesstechnology, a 4G/5G (4th/5th mobile phone) radio access technology, or aradio access technology dedicated to supporting CIoT (Cellular IoT(Internet of Things)). Further, the communication terminal 10 is aterminal capable of performing simultaneous communications (dualconnections) using a plurality of different radio access technologies.For example, the communication terminal 10 may be a terminal thatperforms a mobile communication using a radio access technologyspecified in the 3GPP and a wireless LAN communication at the same time.Further, the communication terminal 10 may be a terminal that performsthe LTE radio access technology and the 5G radio access technology atthe same time.

The radio communication device 21 and the radio communication device 22perform radio communications with the communication terminal 10 by usinga predetermined radio access technology (RAT). The communicationterminal 10 performs radio communications with the radio communicationdevice 22 by using a RAT different from a RAT used for radiocommunications with the radio communication device 21. A feature wherethe communication terminal 10 performs radio communications with theradio communication device 21 and the radio communication device 22 byusing different RATs at the same time is called communicationaggregation, hybrid dual connectivity or the like.

One RAT used in the communication aggregation may be LTE whosecommunication specifications are defined in the 3GPP, or a radiocommunication technology whose communication specifications will bedefined in the 3GPP in the future. This radio communication technologymay be called 5G or the like, for example. The other RAT used in thecommunication aggregation may be wireless LAN.

The policy charging control device 40 is a device that performs controlregarding a service policy and charging related processing related tothe communication terminal 10.

The gateway device 30 is a gateway device that is used when thecommunication terminal 10 communicates with a network including theradio communication device 21 and the radio communication device 22, anetwork where a service is provided, or a different external network.Further, the gateway device 30 transmits charging parameters related tothe communication terminal 10 to the policy charging control device 40.

A configuration example of the gateway device 30 is describedhereinafter. The gateway device 30 may be a computer device thatoperates when a processor executes a program stored in a memory.

The gateway device 30 includes a management unit 31 and a chargingsystem communication unit (note that the communication unit is, in otherwords, a transmitting and receiving unit) 32. The elements thatconstitute the gateway device 30 including the management unit 31, thecharging system communication unit 32 and the like may be software, amodule or the like whose processing is executed by running, on aprocessor, a program stored in a memory. Further, the elements thatconstitute the gateway device 30 may be software such as a circuit or achip.

When the communication terminal 10 performs radio communications withthe radio communication device 21 and the radio communication device 22and forms the communication aggregation, the management unit 31 managesat least one bearer assigned to the communication terminal 10 andinformation indicating a RAT to be used for communications with theradio communication device 21 and a RAT to be used for communicationswith the radio communication device 22 in association with each other.For example, in the case where a bearer that is assigned to enable thecommunication terminal 10 to perform a communication through the radiocommunication device 21 and a bearer that is assigned to enable thecommunication terminal 10 to perform a communication through the radiocommunication device 22 are different, the management unit 31 manages abearer and a RAT in one-to-one association.

Alternatively, in the case where one bearer is assigned to thecommunication terminal 10, and a RAT to be used for communications withthe radio communication device 21 and a RAT to be used forcommunications with the radio communication device 22 are contained inone bearer, the management unit 31 manages two RATs in association withone bearer. Note that three or more RATs may be associated with onebearer.

The charging system communication unit 32 transmits, to the policycharging control device 40, information regarding RATs that are managedon a bearer-by-bearer basis in the management unit 31.

As described above, the gateway device 30 manages the RAT being used bythe communication terminal 10 in association with each bearer andthereby notifies the policy charging control device 40 of the RAT beingused by the communication terminal 10 on a bearer-by-bearer basis. Thepolicy charging control device 40 can thereby accurately grasp the RATactually used by the communication terminal 10 and perform chargingcontrol in accordance with the RAT.

Second Embodiment

A configuration example of a communication system according to a secondembodiment of the present invention is described with reference to FIG.2. In FIG. 2, a configuration example of a communication system that iscomposed of nodes defined in the 3GPP is described. Note that, in FIG.2, illustration of a charging system is omitted, and the charging systemis described later with reference to FIG. 3.

The communication system in FIG. 2 includes a UE 50, an eNB 60, which isa base station for LTE, a 5G base station 70, which is a base stationfor 5G, a mobility management node MME (Mobility Management Entity) 80,a SGW (Serving Gateway) 90, a PGW 100, and a PCRF (Policy Control andCharging Rules) entity 110 (which is referred to hereinafter as PCRF110).

The UE 50 corresponds to the communication terminal 10 in FIG. 1. TheeNB 60 corresponds to the radio communication device 21 in FIG. 1. The5G base station 70 corresponds to the radio communication device 22 inFIG. 1. The PGW 100 corresponds to the gateway device 30 in FIG. 1. ThePCRF 110 corresponds to the policy charging control device 40 in FIG. 1.

The 5G base station 70 is a base station that supports 5G radiocommunications, which are next-generation radio communications to bedefined in the 3GPP in the future. Although the next-generation radiocommunication technology or radio access technology is called 5G for thesake of making the explanation easier, it is not limited to being named5G. Further, the UE 50 is a terminal that supports both the LTE and the5G radio communications.

The MME 80 is a device that mainly gives a request or an instruction formobility management and bearer setting of the UE 50, or a request or aninstruction for removal of a bearer. The SGW 90 and the PGW 100 aregateway devices that relay user data (packets) transmitted or receivedby the UE 50. The SGW 90 accommodates a radio access system, and the PGW100 connects to an external network (PDN: Packet Data Network etc.). ThePCRF 110 determines policies (charging system) regarding QoS control,charging control or the like in the SGW 90 and the PGW 100.

Interfaces between devices in the 3GPP are described hereinafter. AnS1-MME interface is defined between the eNB 60 and the MME 80. An S1-Uinterface is defined between the eNB 60 and the SGW 90. An S11 interfaceis defined between the MME 80 and the SGW 90. An S5 interface is definedbetween the SGW 90 and the PGW 100. A Gx interface is defined betweenthe PGW 100 and the PCRF 110. Note that the term “interface” may bereplaced by the term “reference point”.

An interface corresponding to an X2 interface, which is specified as aninterface between eNBs, may be defined between the eNB 60 and the 5Gbase station 70. Further, an interface corresponding to the S1-Uinterface may be defined between the 5G base station 70 and the SGW 90.Note that, in the case where no interface is set between the 5G basestation 70 and the SGW 90, the 5G base station 70 can transmit andreceive data to and from the SGW 90 through the eNB 60.

The communication system in FIG. 2 shows that the UE 50 performs LTEcommunications with the eNB 60 and performs 5G radio communications withthe 5G base station 70 and forms LTE-5G aggregation. It is assumed thata bearer when the UE 50 performs communications through the eNB 60 isdifferent from a bearer when the UE 50 performs communications throughthe 5G base station 70.

A configuration example of a charging system is described hereinafterwith reference to FIG. 3. The charging system in FIG. 3 includes a PGW100, a PCRF 110, an AF (Application Function) entity 120 (which isreferred to hereinafter as AF 120), an OCS (Online Charging System) 130,a TDF (Traffic Detection Function) entity 140 (which is referred tohereinafter as TDF 140), and an OFCS (Offline Charging System) 150. Inthe charging system of FIG. 3, the PGW 100 may have a PCEF (Policy andCharging Enforcement Function) and communicate with each device thatconstitutes the charging system by use of the PCEF.

The AF 120 is an application server, and it performs control related toapplication services to be provided to the UE 50. The TDF 140 detects aservice type, for each flow, of data transmitted or received by the PGW100 through the PCRF 110. The OCS 130 and the OFCS 150 perform chargingcontrol or the like in accordance with a charging contract of the UE 50.For example, in the case of a charging contract such as a prepaidservice, the OCS 130 having the ability to monitor the traffic at alltimes performs charging processing. On the other hand, in the case of amonthly charging contract or the like, the OFCS 150 performs chargingprocessing.

Interfaces between devices in the 3GPP are described hereinafter. A Gxinterface is defined between the PGW 100 and the PCRF 110. A Gyinterface is defined between the PGW 100 and the OCS 130. A Gz interfaceis defined between the PGW 100 and the OFCS 150. Gyn is defined betweenthe TDF 140 and the OCS 130. Gzn is defined between the TDF 140 and theOFCS 150. An Sd interface is defined between the TDF 140 and the PCRF110. An Sy interface is defined between the PCRF 110 and the OCS 130. AnRx interface is defined between the PCRF 110 and the AF 120.

The PGW 100 transmits RAT types managed on a bearer-by-bearer basis toeach device through the Gx, Gy and Gz interfaces. Further, the PCRF 110transmits RAT types managed on a bearer-by-bearer basis to each devicethrough the Rx and Sd interfaces.

A configuration example of the PGW 100 according to the secondembodiment of the present invention is described with reference to FIG.4. The PGW 100 includes a core network communication unit 101, amanagement unit 102, and a PCC (Policy and Charging Control)communication unit 103. The PCEF is executed by the management unit 102and the PCC communication unit 103.

The core network communication unit 101 transmits or receives user datarelated to the UE 50 to and from the SGW 90. Further, the core networkcommunication unit 101 receives, from the SGW 90, a RAT type that isused for each bearer assigned to the UE 50. The core networkcommunication unit 101 outputs information regarding the received RATtype to the management unit 102.

The management unit 102 manages the RAT type in association with thebearer assigned to the UE 50. An example in which a RAT type is added,in association with a bearer, to a list of parameters managed by the PGW100 which is specified in 3GPP TS23.401 V13.1.0 (2014-12) Table5.7.4-1:P-GW context is described with reference to FIG. 5.

In Field shown in FIG. 5, parameters that are managed on abearer-by-bearer basis by the PGW 100 are written. In Field of FIG. 5,EPS (Evolved Packet System) Bearer ID is set. In Field written below EPSBearer ID of FIG. 5, parameters that are managed on a per EPS Bearer IDbasis are shown. EPS Bearer is a bearer that is set between the UE 50and the PGW 100.

FIG. 5 shows that the parameters that are managed on a per EPS Bearer IDbasis include a RAT type (which is shown at the bottom). In this manner,the management unit 102 of the PGW 100 manages the RAT type and the EPSBearer ID in association with each other.

Referring back to FIG. 4, the PCC communication unit 103 transmits theRAT type that is managed on a per EPS Bearer ID basis in the managementunit 102 to the PCRF 110, the OCS 130 and the OFCS 150.

Note that, also in the case where RAT types are managed on a per UE 50basis just like the way it used to be, the PCC communication unit 103transmits the RAT type that is managed on a per EPS Bearer ID basis ofFIG. 5, in preference to the RAT that is managed on a per UE 50 basis,to the PCRF 110, the OCS 130 and the OFCS 150.

A configuration example of the eNB 60 according to the second embodimentof the present invention is described with reference to FIG. 6. The eNB60 includes a radio communication unit 61, a different RAT communicationunit 62, and a core network communication unit 63. The elements thatconstitute the eNB 60 may be software, a module or the like whoseprocessing is executed by running, on a processor, a program stored in amemory. Further, the elements that constitute the eNB 60 may be softwaresuch as a circuit or a chip.

The radio communication unit 61 performs LTE communications with the UE50. The different RAT communication unit 62 performs communications withanother radio communication device that supports a different radiocommunication scheme from LTE. In this example, the different RATcommunication unit 62 performs communications with the 5G base station70. The core network communication unit 63 transmits or receives controldata to and from the MME 80. The control data may be calledC(Control)-Plane data, for example. Further, the core networkcommunication unit 63 transmits or receives user data to and from theSGW 90. The user data may be called U (User)-Plane, for example.Although the core network communication unit 63 transmits or receivescontrol data and user data in this example, a communication unit thattransmits or receives control data and a communication unit thattransmits or receives user data may be different functional blocks ordifferent interfaces.

The different RAT communication unit 62 carries out processing of addingthe 5G base station 70 as a device to form the LTE-5G aggregation whenthe eNB 60 is performing LTE communications with the UE 50.

A configuration example of the UE 50 is described with reference to FIG.7. The UE 50 includes an LTE communication unit 51 and a 5Gcommunication unit 52. The LTE communication unit 51 performs LTEcommunications with the eNB 60. The 5G communication unit 52 performs 5Gcommunications with the 5G base station 70. The UE 50 communicates withthe eNB 60 and the 5G base station 70 at the same time by using the LTEcommunication unit 51 and the 5G communication unit 52 and thereby formthe LTE-5G aggregation. Further, the UE 50 is a terminal capable ofperforming simultaneous communications (dual connections) using aplurality of different radio access technologies.

A process flow of transmitting of a RAT type in the 3GPP according tothe second embodiment of the present invention is described hereinafterwith reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 refers to 3GPP TS23.401 V13.1.0(2014-12) FIG. 5.4.7-1. FIG. 8 shows a process flow related to E-UTRAN(Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network) initiated E-RAB(EPS-Radio Access Bearer) modification procedure. To be specific, FIG. 8shows a process flow of transmitting a RAT type in the case where the 5Gbase station 70 is added as a device to form the LTE-5G aggregation whenthe UE 50 and the eNB 60 are performing LTE communications.

First, the UE 50, the eNB 60 and the 5G base station 70 carry outprocessing to add the 5G base station 70 (SCG (Secondary Cell Group)Modification) (S11). The SCG indicates a base station (or a service cellformed by the base station) that is added to form the LTE-5Gaggregation. To be specific, in FIG. 8, the 5G base station 70corresponds to the SCG. On the other hand, the eNB 60, with which the UE50 has communicated initially, corresponds to a MCG (Master Cell Group).

Next, user data is transferred between the eNB 60 and the 5G basestation 70 (Forwarding of data) (S 12).

Then, the eNB 60 transmits an E-RAB Modification Indication message tothe MME 80 in order to update bearer information after addition of the5G base station 70 as the SCG (S13). The bearer information to beupdated is E-RAB (E-UTRAN Radio Access Bearer). The E-RAB is a bearerthat is set between the UE 50 and the SGW 90. Further, the E-RABcorresponds one-to-one with an EPS Bearer that is set between the UE 50and the PGW 100.

Parameter information that is set to the E-RAB Modification Indicationmessage is described with reference to FIG. 9. Note that FIG. 9 refersto 3GPP TS 36.413 V13.0.0 (2015-06) Section 9.1.3.8. Parameterinformation that is set to the E-RAB Modification Indication message iswritten below IE/Group Name.

In E-RAB to be Modified List, parameters regarding the 5G base station70 that is added to form the LTE-5G aggregation are set. For example, inE-RAB to be Modified Item IEs (Information Elements), E-RAB ID foridentifying E-RAB to be assigned when the UE 50 communicates with the 5Gbase station 70 is set. Further, in E-RAB to be Modified Item IEs, RATtype (5G) indicating the RAT which the UE 50 uses for communicationswith the 5G base station 70 is set. For example, information indicating5G may be set as the RAT type that is set to E-RAB to be Modified ItemIEs.

The bearer that is set between the UE 50 and the SGW 90 through the 5Gbase station 70 may be called differently from E-RAB. In FIG. 9, thebearer that is set between the UE 50 and the SGW 90 through the 5G basestation 70 is described as E-RAB for the sake of easier explanation.Further, the names E-RAB to be Modified List, E-RAB to be Modified ItemIEs, and E-RAB ID may be changed in accordance with the name of thebearer that is set between the UE 50 and the SGW 90 through the 5G basestation 70.

In E-RAB not to be Modified List, parameters regarding the eNB 60, withwhich the UE 50 has communicated initially, are set. For example, inE-RAB not to be Modified Item IEs, E-RAB ID for identifying E-RAB to beassigned when the UE 50 communicates with the eNB 60 is set. Further, inE-RAB to be Modified Item IEs, RAT type (LTE) indicating the RAT whichthe UE 50 uses for communications with the eNB 60 is set. For example,information indicating LTE may be set as the RAT type that is set toE-RAB to be Modified Item IEs.

The eNB 60 transmits, to the MME 80, the E-RAB Modification Indicationmessage containing the RAT type associated with the E-RAB ID.

Referring back to FIG. 8, the MME 80 receives the E-RAB ModificationIndication message and transmits, to the SGW 90, a Modify Bearer Requestmessage to which the RAT type associated with the E-RAB ID is set (S14).Further, the SGW 90 transmits, to the PGW 100, the Modify Bearer Requestmessage to which the RAT type associated with the E-RAB ID is set (S15).

Parameter information that is set to the Modify Bearer Request messageis described with reference to FIG. 10. Note that FIG. 10 refers to 3GPPTS 29.274 V13.2.0 (2015-06) Table 7.2.7-2. As shown in FIG. 10, a RATtype and EPS Bearer ID are set to the Modify Bearer Request message.Further, when there are a plurality of E-RAB IDs as in the example ofFIG. 9, a plurality of Bearer Context IE Types are set to the ModifyBearer Request message, and a RAT type is set for each EPS Bearer ID.Further, the RAT type may be set for each Modify Bearer Request message.In other words, the RAT type can be set for each UE in the Modify BearerRequest message. In this case, the RAT type that is set to the ModifyBearer Request message is valid for all EPS Bearers. However, in thecase where the RAT type is set to each of the Modify Bearer Requestmessage and the EPS Bearer ID, the RAT type that is set to the EPSBearer ID may be processed in preference to the other.

Referring back to FIG. 8, as a response to the Modify Bearer Requestmessage, the PGW 100 transmits a Modify Bearer Response message to theSGW 90 (S16). Further, the SGW 90 transmits the Modify Bearer Responsemessage to the MME 80 (S17). After Step S17, the SGW 90 can transmituser data addressed to the UE 50 to the eNB 60 and the 5G base station70. Further, after Step S17, the SGW 90 can receive user datatransmitted from the UE 50 through the eNB 60 or the 5G base station 70.

Although the RAT type associated with the E-RAB ID or the EPS Bearer IDis set to the E-RAB Modification Indication message and the ModifyBearer Request message in the process flow of FIG. 8, the RAT typeassociated with a bearer may be set to another message different fromthose messages.

For example, FIG. 11 shows that a RAT type is set, for each EPS BearerID, to a Create Session Request message that is used in an ATTACHprocess, a Tracking Area Update process or the like. Note that FIG. 11refers to 3GPP TS 29.274 V13.2.0 (2015-06) Table 7.2.1-2. The MME 80transmits, to the SGW 90, the Create Session Request message that is setas above. Further, the RAT type may be set for each Create SessionRequest message. In other words, the RAT type can be set for each UE inthe Create Session Request message. In this case, the RAT type that isset to the Create Session Request message is valid for all EPS Bearers.However, in the case where the RAT type is set to each of the CreateSession Request message and the EPS Bearer ID, the RAT type that is setto the EPS Bearer ID may be processed in preference to the other.Further, the SGW 90 transmits (transfers), to the PGW 100, the CreateSession Request message that is set as above.

FIG. 12 shows that a RAT type is set, for each EPS Bearer ID, to aBearer Resource Command message that is used to request assignment of abearer when the UE 50 adds the 5G base station 70 and forms the LTE-5Gaggregation or to request modification of a bearer. Note that FIG. 12refers to 3GPP TS 29.274 V13.2.0 (2015-06) Table 7.2.5-2. The MME 80transmits, to the SGW 90, the Bearer Resource Command message that isset as above. Further, the RAT type may be set for each Bearer ResourceCommand message. In other words, the RAT type can be set for each UE inthe Bearer Resource Command message. In this case, the RAT type that isset to the Bearer Resource Command message is valid for all EPS Bearers.However, in the case where the RAT type is set to each of the BearerResource Command message and the EPS Bearer ID, the RAT type that is setto the EPS Bearer ID may be processed in preference to the other.Further, the SGW 90 transmits (transfers), to the PGW 100, the BearerResource Command message that is set as above.

FIG. 13 shows that a RAT type is set, for each EPS Bearer ID, to anAccess Bearers Request message that is used in a handover process whereno change occurs in the SGW 90. Note that FIG. 13 refers to 3GPP TS29.274 V13.2.0 (2015-06) Table 7.2.24-2. The MME 80 transmits, to theSGW 90, the Modify Access Bearers Request message that is set as above.Further, the RAT type may be set for each Modify Access Bearers Requestmessage. In other words, the RAT type can be set for each UE in theModify Access Bearers Request message. In this case, the RAT type thatis set to the Modify Access Bearers Request message is valid for all EPSBearers. However, in the case where the RAT type is set to each of theModify Access Bearers Request message and the EPS Bearer ID, the RATtype that is set to the EPS Bearer ID may be processed in preference tothe other.

FIG. 14 shows that a RAT type is set, for each EPS Bearer ID, to aContext Request message that is used in a Tracking Area Update processor the like. Note that FIG. 14 refers to 3GPP TS 29.274 V13.2.0(2015-06) Table 7.3.5-1. The Context Request message is transmittedbetween an MME before change and an MME after change when the UE 50moves to a place where a change in the MME occurs. Further, the RAT typemay be set for each Context Request message. In other words, the RATtype can be set for each UE in the Context Request message. In thiscase, the RAT type that is set to the Context Request message is validfor all EPS Bearers. However, in the case where the RAT type is set toeach of the Context Request message and the EPS Bearer ID, the RAT typethat is set to the EPS Bearer ID may be processed in preference to theother.

FIG. 15 shows that a RAT type is set, for each EPS Bearer ID, to aChange Notification Request message that is transmitted from the MME 80to the SGW 90. Note that FIG. 15 refers to 3GPP TS 29.274 V13.2.0(2015-06) Table 7.3.14-1. Further, the RAT type may be set for eachChange Notification Request message.

In other words, the RAT type can be set for each UE in the ChangeNotification Request message. In this case, the RAT type that is set tothe Change Notification Request message is valid for all EPS Bearers.However, in the case where the RAT type is set to each of the ChangeNotification Request message and the EPS Bearer ID, the RAT type that isset to the EPS Bearer ID may be processed in preference to the other.

Hereinafter, a process flow when transmitting a RAT type from the PGW100 to the PCRF 110 is described with reference to FIG. 16.

When the UE 50 forms the LTE-5G aggregation with the eNB 60 and the 5Gbase station 70, the PGW 100 notifies the PCRF 110 that an IP-CAN(IP-Connectivity Access Network) Session is established. To be specific,the PGW 100 transmits a Diameter CCR (Credit Control Request) message tothe PCRF 110 (S21). The PGW 100 sets, to the Diameter CCR message, theRAT type associated with the EPS bearer. The PCRF 110 receives theDiameter CCR message and thereby grasps the RAT type associated with theEPS bearer. Further, the RAT type may be set for each Diameter CCRmessage. In other words, the RAT type can be set for each UE in theDiameter CCR message. In this case, the RAT type that is set to theDiameter CCR message is valid for all EPS Bearers. However, in the casewhere the RAT type is set to each of the Diameter CCR message and theEPS bearer, the RAT type that is set to the EPS Bearer ID may beprocessed in preference to the other.

A process of transmitting a Diameter message between the PCRF 110 andthe TDF 140 is described hereinafter with reference to FIG. 17. The PCRF110 transmits, to the TDF 140, a Diameter TSR (TDF Session Request)message to which an ADC (Application Detection and Control) rule forextracting a specific packet flow from user data traffic regarding theUE 50 is set (S31). The PCRF 110 sets the RAT type associated with theEPS bearer to the Diameter TSR message. Further, the RAT type may be setfor each Diameter TSR message. In other words, the RAT type can be setfor each UE in the Diameter TSR message. In this case, the RAT type thatis set to the Diameter TSR message is valid for all EPS Bearers.However, in the case where the RAT type is set to each of the DiameterTSR message and the EPS bearer, the RAT type that is set to the EPSBearer may be processed in preference to the other.

After that, the TDF 140 transmits, as a response message, a Diameter TSA(TDF Session Answer) message to the PCRF 110 (S32).

Besides the examples shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the RAT type associatedwith the EPS Bearer is transmitted to the AF 120, the OCS 130 and theOFCS 150 with use of the Diameter message. Further, the RAT type may beset for each Diameter TSA message. In other words, the RAT type can beset for each UE in the Diameter TSA message. In this case, the RAT typethat is set to the Diameter TSA message is valid for all EPS Bearers.However, in the case where the RAT type is set to each of the DiameterTSA message and the EPS bearer, the RAT type that is set to the EPSBearer may be processed in preference to the other.

Values of RAT types to be set to various messages are describedhereinbelow. Currently, in 3GPP TS 29.274 V13.2.0 (2015-06) Table8.17-1, Values 0 to 7 shown in FIG. 18 are defined as values indicatingRAT types. For example, Value 3 indicates wireless LAN (WLAN), and Value6 indicates EUTRAN (LTE). FIG. 18 shows that 8 is newly added as thevalue of the RAT type indicating 5G. It is thereby possible to set 6when LTE is indicated as the RAT type and set 8 when 5G is indicated ineach message.

As described above, the RAT type associated with the E-RAB ID or the EPSBearer ID is set to each message defined in the 3GPP and transmitted toa related node including the PGW 100. Therefore, when the UE 50 formsthe LTE-5G aggregation, the PGW 100 can grasp the RAT type for eachbearer used by the UE 50, not for each UE 50. The PGW 100 can therebycarry out charging on a bearer-by-bearer basis in accordance with theRAT type for the UE 50 that forms the LTE-5G aggregation.

Third Embodiment

A configuration example of a communication system according to a thirdembodiment of the present invention is described with reference to FIG.19. The communication system in FIG. 19 uses an access point WT 160,which performs wireless LAN communications, in place of the 5G basestation 70 in FIG. 2. Further, it is assumed that an interface is notset between the WT 160 and the SGW 90, and the WT 160 transmits orreceives user data regarding the UE 50 through the eNB 60. An Xwinterface is defined between the eNB 60 and the WT 160. The WT 160 maybe an AP (Access Point) or a WiFi router that is used as a master unitor a base station in wireless LAN communications, for example.

The communication system in FIG. 19 shows that the UE 50 performs LTEcommunications with the eNB 60 and performs wireless LAN communicationswith the WT 160 and forms the LTE-WT aggregation. It is assumed that theeNB 60 sets a bearer that is used for LTE communications with the UE 50and a bearer that is used for wireless LAN communications through the WT160 as one bearer. Specifically, the eNB 60 sets two different RATs toone bearer and thereby forms the LTE-WT aggregation with the UE 50.

Values of RAT types to be set to various messages defined in the 3GPPare described hereinbelow. Currently, in 3GPP TS 29.274 V13.2.0(2015-06) Table 8.17-1, Values 0 to 7 shown in FIG. 20 are defined asvalues indicating RAT types. For example, Value 3 indicates wireless LAN(WLAN), and Value 6 indicates EUTRAN (LTE).

In the second embodiment, in the case where the UE 50 forms the LTE-5Gaggregation, a predetermined Value may be set for each bearer. However,in the case where the UE 50 forms the LTE-WT aggregation as in the thirdembodiment, a plurality of RATs are included in one bearer. In such acase, it may be defined that the RAT type of Value 8 indicatesEUTRAN+WLAN as shown in FIG. 20, for example. Specifically, each nodeshown in FIG. 19 may determine that the UE 50 forms the LTE-WTaggregation when Value 8 is set as the RAT type.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 21, it may be indicated that the UE 50forms the LTE-WT aggregation by writing values next to each other, likeValue 6+3. Note that FIG. 12 refers to 3GPP TS 29.274 V13.2.0 (2015-06)Table 8.17-1.

Further, in FIGS. 20 and 21, a usage rate, in each RAT, of user datatransmitted through one bearer may be also defined when the UE 50 formsthe LTE-WT aggregation.

For example, in FIG. 20, Value 8 may be defined as EUTRAN (30%)+WLAN(70%), and Value 9 may be defined as EUTRAN (50%)+WLAN (50%) or thelike. 30% in EUTRAN (30%) means that 30% of user data transmittedthrough one bearer is transmitted by LTE communications.

Further, in FIG. 21, a usage rate of LTE communications and WLANcommunications may be defined like Value6 (30%)+3 (70%).

Parameter information that is set to the E-RAB Modification Indicationmessage according to the third embodiment of the present invention isdescribed with reference to FIG. 22. As described earlier, it is assumedin the second embodiment that E-RABs that are identified by differentE-RAB IDs are used in the eNB 60 and the 5G base station 70 when the UE50 forms the LTE-5G aggregation in FIG. 9. Thus, in FIG. 9, E-RAB to beModified List and E-RAB not to be Modified List are contained in theE-RAB Modification Indication message.

On the other hand, in FIG. 22, it is assumed that the same E-RAB is usedin the eNB 60 and the WT 160 when the UE 50 forms the LTE-WTaggregation. Thus, in FIG. 9, only E-RAB to be Modified List iscontained in the E-RAB Modification Indication message. In E-RAB to beModified List, a RAT type is set in association with the E-RAB ID. Whenthe UE 50 forms the LTE-WT aggregation, Value where the RAT typesindicate EUTRAN+WLAN in FIG. 20 or 21 is set as the RAT type in FIG. 22.

Further, the name of a bearer where LTE communications and wireless LANcommunications are set may be different from E-RAB, and it is notlimited to the name E-RAB.

As described above, by defining RAT types as in the third embodiment ofthe present invention, the PGW 100 can accurately grasp the RAT typesthat are set to one bearer even when a plurality of RAT types are set toone bearer.

Further, by setting a usage rate of each RAT type in the case where aplurality of RAT types are set to one bearer, the PGW 100 can carry outcharging for the UE 50 in accordance with the usage rate of the RAT typein charging control.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to theabove-described embodiments and may be varied in many ways within thescope of the present invention. For example, the LTE-5G aggregation inthe second embodiment may be implemented by using one bearer asdescribed in the third embodiment. Further, the LTE-WT aggregation inthe third embodiment may be implemented by using two bearers asdescribed in the second embodiment.

Configuration examples of the UE 50, and the eNB 60 and the PGW 100described in the plurality of embodiments above are describedhereinafter. FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing a configuration exampleof the eNB 60. Referring to FIG. 23, the eNB 60 includes an RFtransceiver 1001, a network interface 1003, a processor 1004, and amemory 1005. The RF transceiver 1001 performs analog RF signalprocessing for communication with the UEs. The RF transceiver 1001 mayinclude a plurality of transceivers. The RF transceiver 1001 isconnected to an antenna 1002 and a processor 1004. The RF transceiver1001 receives modulated symbol data (or OFDM symbol data) from theprocessor 1004, generates a transmission RF signal and supplies thetransmission RF signal to the antenna 1002. Further, the RF transceiver1001 generates a baseband received signal based on a received RF signalreceived by the antenna 1002 and supplies it to the processor 1004.

The network interface 1003 is used for communications with a networknode (e.g., other eNBs, Mobility Management Entity (MME), ServingGateway (S-GW), and TSS or ITS server). The network interface 1003 mayinclude a network interface card (NIC) compliant to IEEE 802.3 series,for example.

The processor 1004 performs data plane processing including digitalbaseband signal processing and control plane processing for radiocommunications. For example, in the case of LTE and LTE-Advanced, thedigital baseband signal processing by the processor 1004 may includesignal processing of PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer and PHY layer.Further, the signal processing by the processor 1004 may include signalprocessing of GTP-U·UDP/IP layer in the X2-U interface and the S1-Uinterface. Furthermore, the control plane processing by the processor1004 may include processing of X2AP protocol, S1-MME protocol and RRCprotocol.

The processor 1004 may include a plurality of processors. For example,the processor 1004 may include a modem processor (e.g., DSP) thatperforms digital baseband signal processing, a processor (e.g., DSP)that performs signal processing of GTP-U·UDP/IP layer in the X2-Uinterface and the S1-U interface, and a protocol stack processor (e.g.,CPU or MPU) that performs control plane processing.

The memory 1005 is a combination of a volatile memory and a nonvolatilememory. The memory 1005 may include a plurality of memory devices thatare physically independent of one another. The volatile memory is aStatic Random Access Memory (SRAM), a Dynamic RAM (DRAM), or acombination of them, for example. The nonvolatile memory is a mask ReadOnly Memory (MROM), an Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM),a flash memory, a hard disk drive, or a combination of them, forexample. The memory 1005 may include a storage that is placed apart fromthe processor 1004. In this case, the processor 1004 may access thememory 1005 through the network interface 1003 or an I/O interface,which is not shown.

The memory 1005 may store a software module (computer program)containing a group of instructions and data for performing theprocessing by the eNB 40 described in the above plurality ofembodiments. In several implementations, the processor 1004 may beconfigured to perform the processing of the eNB 60 described in theabove embodiments by reading the software module from the memory 1005and executing it.

FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the UE 50.A Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver 1101 performs analog RF signalprocessing for communication with the eNB 60 and the 5G base station 70.The analog RF signal processing performed by the RF transceiver 1101includes frequency up-conversion, frequency down-conversion, andamplification. The RF transceiver 1101 is connected to an antenna 1102and a baseband processor 1103. Specifically, the RF transceiver 1101receives modulated symbol data (or OFDM symbol data) from the basebandprocessor 1103, generates a transmission RF signal and supplies thetransmission RF signal to the antenna 1102. Further, the RF transceiver1101 generates a baseband received signal based on a received RF signalreceived by the antenna 1102 and supplies it to the baseband processor1103.

The baseband processor 1103 performs digital baseband signal processing(data plane processing) and control plane processing for radiocommunications. The digital baseband signal processing includes (a) datacompression/decompression, (b) data segmentation/concatenation, (c)transmission format (transmission frame) composition/decomposition, (d)transmission path encoding/decoding, (e) modulation (symbolmapping)/demodulation, and (f) OFDM symbol data (baseband OFDM signal)generation by Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) and the like. On theother hand, the control plane processing includes communicationmanagement of Layer 1 (e.g., transmission power control), Layer 2 (e.g.,radio resource management and hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ)processing), and Layer 3 (e.g., attach, mobility, and signaling relatedto call management).

For example, in the case of LTE and LTE-Advanced, the digital basebandsignal processing by the baseband processor 1103 may include signalprocessing of Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, Radio LinkControl (RLC) layer, MAC layer, and PHY layer. Further, the controlplane processing by the baseband processor 1103 may include processingof Non-Access Stratum (NAS) protocol, RRC protocol, and MAC CE.

The baseband processor 1103 may include a modem processor (e.g., DigitalSignal Processor (DSP)) that performs digital baseband signal processingand a protocol stack processor (e.g., Central Processing Unit (CPU) orMicro Processing Unit (MPU)) that performs control plane processing. Inthis case, the protocol stack processor that performs control planeprocessing may be made common to an application processor 1104, which isdescribed below.

The application processor 1104 is also called a CPU, an MPU, amicroprocessor or a processor core. The application processor 1104 mayinclude a plurality of processors (a plurality of processor cores). Theapplication processor 1104 implements each function of the UE 50 byrunning a system software program (Operating System (OS)) and variousapplication programs (e.g., call application, web browser, mailer,camera control application, music playback application etc.) read from amemory 1106 or a memory, which is not shown.

In several implementations, as shown in the dotted line (1105) in FIG.24, the baseband processor 1103 and the application processor 1104 maybe integrated into one chip. In other words, the baseband processor 1103and the application processor 1104 may be implemented as one System onChip (SoC) device 1105. The SoC device is also called a system LargeScale Integration (LSI) or a chip set in some cases.

The memory 1106 is a volatile memory, a nonvolatile memory, or acombination of them. The memory 1106 may include a plurality of memorydevices that are physically independent of one another. The volatilememory is a Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), a Dynamic RAM (DRAM), ora combination of them, for example. The nonvolatile memory is a maskRead Only Memory (MROM), an Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM(EEPROM), a flash memory, a hard disk drive, or a combination of them,for example. For example, the memory 1106 may include an external memorydevice that is accessible from the baseband processor 1103, theapplication processor 1104 and the SoC 1105. The memory 1106 may includean internal memory device that is integrated into the baseband processor1103, the application processor 1104 or the SoC 1105. Further, thememory 1106 may include a memory in a Universal Integrated Circuit Card(UICC).

The memory 1106 may store a software module (computer program)containing a group of instructions and data for performing theprocessing by the UE 50 described in the above plurality of embodiments.In several implementations, the baseband processor 1103 or theapplication processor 1104 may be configured to perform the processingof the UE 50 described in the above embodiments by reading the softwaremodule from the memory 1106 and executing it.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the PGW100. Referring to FIG. 25, the PGW 100 includes a network interface1211, a processor 1202, and a memory 1203. The network interface 1201 isused to communicate with network nodes (e.g., the eNodeB 130, MME,P-GW). The network interface 1201 may include a network interface card(NIC) that complies with the IEEE 802.3 series, for example.

The processor 1202 reads and runs software (computer program) from thememory 1203 and thereby executes processing of the PGW 100 that isdescribed with reference to the sequence charts and the flowcharts inthe embodiments described above. The processor 1202 may be amicroprocessor, an MPU or a CPU, for example. The processor 1202 mayinclude a plurality of processors.

The memory 1203 is a combination of a volatile memory and a nonvolatilememory. The memory 1203 may include a storage that is placed apart fromthe processor 1202. In this case, the processor 1202 may access thememory 1203 through an I/O interface, which is not shown.

In the example of FIG. 25, the memory 1203 is used to store a group ofsoftware modules. The processor 1202 reads and runs the group ofsoftware modules from the memory 1203 and can thereby perform theprocessing of the PGW 100 described in the above embodiments.

As described with reference to FIGS. 23 and 25, each of processorsincluded in the UE 50, the eNB 60 and the PGW 100 runs one or aplurality of programs including a group of instructions for causing acomputer to perform the algorithms described using the drawings.

In the above example, the program can be stored and provided to thecomputer using any type of non-transitory computer readable medium. Thenon-transitory computer readable medium includes any type of tangiblestorage medium. Examples of the non-transitory computer readable mediuminclude magnetic storage media (such as floppy disks, magnetic tapes,hard disk drives, etc.), optical magnetic storage media (e.g.magneto-optical disks), CD-ROM (Read Only Memory), CD-R, CD-R/W, DVD-ROM(Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), DVD-R (DVD Recordable)),DVD-R DL (DVD-R Dual Layer)), DVD-RW (DVD ReWritable)), DVD-RAM),DVD+R), DVR+R DL), DVD+RW), BD-R (Blu-ray (registered trademark) DiscRecordable)), BD-RE (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc Rewritable)),BD-ROM), and semiconductor memories (such as mask ROM, PROM(Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable PROM), flash ROM, RAM (Random AccessMemory), etc.). The program may be provided to a computer using any typeof transitory computer readable medium. Examples of the transitorycomputer readable medium include electric signals, optical signals, andelectromagnetic waves. The transitory computer readable medium canprovide the program to a computer via a wired communication line such asan electric wire or optical fiber or a wireless communication line.

While the invention has been particularly shown and described withreference to embodiments thereof, the invention is not limited to theseembodiments. It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the artthat various changes in form and details may be made therein withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the present invention as definedby the claims.

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority fromJapanese patent application No. 2015-180484 filed on Sep. 14, 2015, thedisclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

Further, the whole or part of the embodiments disclosed above can bedescribed as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

Supplementary Note 1

A gateway device comprising:

a management unit configured to, when a communication terminal formscommunication aggregation by performing a first radio communicationusing a first radio access technology and a second radio communicationusing a second radio access technology, manage at least one bearerassigned to the communication terminal in association with informationindicating the first and second radio access technologies; and

a charging system communication unit configured to transmit theinformation indicating the first and second radio access technologies toat least one charging control device that performs charging control.

Supplementary Note 2

The gateway device according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein thecharging system communication unit transmits, to the at least onecharging control device, a Diameter message to which the informationindicating the radio access technology is set.

Supplementary Note 3

The gateway device according to Supplementary Note 1 or 2, wherein, whena first bearer is assigned to the first radio communication and a secondbearer is assigned to the second radio communication, the managementunit manages the first bearer in association with first type informationindicating the first radio access technology, and manages the secondbearer in association with second type information indicating the secondradio access technology.

Supplementary Note 4

The gateway device according to Supplementary Note 3, wherein

the management unit further manages the first bearer and the first typeinformation in association with the second bearer and the second typeinformation, and manages the communication terminal in association withthe first type information, and

the charging system communication unit transmits, to the chargingcontrol device, the first type information associated with the firstbearer and the second type information associated with the second bearerin preference to the first type information associated with thecommunication terminal.

Supplementary Note 5

The gateway device according to Supplementary Note 1 or 2, wherein, whena third bearer is assigned to the first and second radio communications,the management unit manages the third bearer in association with thirdtype information indicating the first radio access technology and thesecond radio access technology.

Supplementary Note 6

The gateway device according to Supplementary Note 5, wherein

the management unit further manages the third bearer in association withthe third type information, and manages the communication terminal inassociation with the first type information indicating the first radioaccess technology, and

the charging system communication unit transmits, to the chargingcontrol device, the third type information associated with the thirdbearer in preference to the first type information associated with thecommunication terminal.

Supplementary Note 7

The gateway device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 6,further comprising:

a core network communication unit configured to receive a controlmessage associating at least one bearer assigned to the communicationterminal with information regarding the first and second radio accesstechnologies from a network device that performs control related totransmission of user data between the gateway device and a first radiocommunication device that performs the first radio communication and asecond radio communication device that performs the second radiocommunication.

Supplementary Note 8

The gateway device according to Supplementary Note 7, wherein thecontrol message includes at least one of a Create Session Requestmessage, a Bearer Resource Command message, a Modify Bearer Requestmessage, a Modify Access Bearers Request message, a Context Requestmessage, and a Change Notification Request message.

Supplementary Note 9

A radio communication device that performs a first radio communicationusing a first radio access technology with a communication terminal,wherein, when the communication terminal forms communication aggregationby performing the first radio communication and a second radiocommunication using a second radio access technology, the radiocommunication device transmits information associating at least onebearer assigned to the communication terminal and information indicatingthe first and second radio access technologies to a network device thatmanages the bearer.

Supplementary Note 10

A charging control method comprising:

when a communication terminal forms communication aggregation byperforming a first radio communication using a first radio accesstechnology and a second radio communication using a second radio accesstechnology, managing at least one bearer assigned to the communicationterminal in association with information indicating the first and secondradio access technologies; and

transmitting the information indicating the first and second radioaccess technologies to at least one charging control device thatperforms charging control.

Supplementary Note 11

A data transmission method used in a radio communication device thatperforms a first radio communication using a first radio accesstechnology with a communication terminal, comprising:

when the communication terminal forms communication aggregation byperforming the first radio communication and a second radiocommunication using a second radio access technology, transmittinginformation associating at least one bearer assigned to thecommunication terminal and information indicating the first and secondradio access technologies to a network device that manages the bearer.

Supplementary Note 12

A program causing a computer to execute:

when a communication terminal forms communication aggregation byperforming a first radio communication using a first radio accesstechnology and a second radio communication using a second radio accesstechnology, managing at least one bearer assigned to the communicationterminal in association with information indicating the first and secondradio access technologies; and

transmitting the information indicating the first and second radioaccess technologies to at least one charging control device thatperforms charging control.

Supplementary Note 13

A program to be executed by a computer that performs a first radiocommunication using a first radio access technology with a communicationterminal, the program causing the computer to execute:

when the communication terminal forms communication aggregation byperforming the first radio communication and a second radiocommunication using a second radio access technology, transmittinginformation associating at least one bearer assigned to thecommunication terminal and information indicating the first and secondradio access technologies to a network device that manages the bearer.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

-   10 COMMUNICATION TERMINAL-   21 RADIO COMMUNICATION DEVICE-   22 RADIO COMMUNICATION DEVICE-   30 GATEWAY DEVICE-   31 MANAGEMENT UNIT-   32 CHARGING SYSTEM COMMUNICATION UNIT-   40 CHARGING CONTROL DEVICE-   50 UE-   51 LTE COMMUNICATION UNIT-   52 5G COMMUNICATION UNIT-   60 eNB-   61 RADIO COMMUNICATION UNIT-   62 DIFFERENT RAT COMMUNICATION UNIT-   63 CORE NETWORK COMMUNICATION UNIT-   70 5G BASE STATION-   80 MME-   90 SGW-   100 PGW-   101 CORE NETWORK COMMUNICATION UNIT-   102 MANAGEMENT UNIT-   103 PCC COMMUNICATION UNIT-   110 PCRF-   120 AF-   130 OCS-   140 TDF-   150 OFCS-   160 WT

1-14. (canceled)
 15. A method for a first communication apparatus in acore network the method comprising, receiving, from a first base stationthat connects to a communication terminal by using a first radio accesstechnology (RAT), which is different from a second RAT, indicationincluding a RAT type that indicates the second RAT and an identifierthat identifies a traffic flow between the communication terminal and asecond communication apparatus in the core network, providing, to athird communication apparatus in the core network, a first message. 16.The first communication apparatus according to claim 15, wherein thefirst message includes the identifier and the RAT type.
 17. A firstcommunication apparatus in a core network comprising, a receiverconfigured to receive, from a first base station that connects to acommunication terminal by using a first radio access technology (RAT),which is different from a second RAT, indication including a RAT typethat indicates the second RAT and an identifier that identifies atraffic flow between the communication terminal and a secondcommunication apparatus in the core network; and a transmitterconfigured to provide, to a third communication apparatus (SMF) in thecore network, first message.
 18. The first communication apparatusaccording to claim 17, wherein the first message includes the identifierand the RAT type.